Perhaps our limitations or lack of success is because of the way we define success. Success has nothing to do with money. The size of your car or house does not determine your level of success. Success is determined by a person’s attitude and their ability to help and/or serve others.

I have a good friend that has defied all odds because he broke free of his limitations. He suffered a life changing situation after undergoing a below the elbow amputation while serving our country in the United States Armed Forces. If you know anything about me, you know how much I enjoy playing golf.

The first time I played golf with this distinguished gentleman I thought he would not have a chance of winning against me. It did not take long for me to realize that what I thought was a limitation was only my limitation. Needless to say, I did not win that day and there have been a number of rounds of golf I have lost to my friend.

What limitations are keeping you from winning personally or professionally?

My friend had a different mind-frame about his amputation. He did not allow the amputation to stop his life. So I have been inspired to share 2 ways to break free of any limitations you may have in your life.

1. Change your thought process.

The very first thing you have to do to rid yourself of any limitations is change your attitude. It is hard to move forward and enjoy any success with the wrong attitude. The wrong attitude will keep you stuck in an unproductive state. An American Founding Father, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, and third President of the United States Thomas Jefferson once said, “Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal; nothing on earth can help the man with the wrong mental attitude.” Which man or woman are you?

2. Work harder.

Most people feel they work hard. You have heard the phrase, “Work smarter not harder.” Right? Let’s be honest, I have never met a successful person that said that it was easy becoming successful. Matter of fact every successful person I have ever spoken to said success to a lot of work, a ton of failing, and many sacrifices.

You don’t have time to critique and judge others when you are working hard. This will only lessen your impact as a leader. Leah LaBelle the Canadian Musician stated, “Work hard for what you want because it won’t come to you without a fight. You have to be strong and courageous and know that you can do anything you put your mind to. If somebody puts you down or criticizes you, just keep on believing in yourself and turn it into something positive.”

Whether you are trying to find a new job or start a new business, do not let anything stop you from moving closer to living a successful life. Have a different mind-frame and break free of any limitations in your life.

What is stopping you from being at your best? List some current or past limitations and describe how you plan to break free from those things. Please leave a comment below, send me a tweet on Twitter, or leave a comment on Facebook.